Thanks to local donors, the Manatee Community Foundation has distributed nearly $265,000 in scholarships to 96 students for the 2025-26 academic year.
“Beyond providing financial assistance, our scholarship program affirms the potential of each student and shows that their community believes in their success,” said Veronica Thames, chief executive of MCF. “It’s a powerful reminder that no one achieves their goals alone, and that we are here to walk alongside them as they pursue education and opportunity.”
This year’s scholarship recipients are pursuing a wide range of degrees from associate to doctorate, and they represent high schools across Manatee County, including Bayshore, Lakewood Ranch, Palmetto, Parrish, and Southeast. More than half of the students are the first in their families to attend college; over 13% are managing their academic journeys while facing financial hardship or living with disabilities; and nearly 23% of students have dependents.
Among this year’s recipients is Jackson Dawson, a double major in economics and political science at New College of Florida.
“Receiving this scholarship has eased the financial burden of college and allows me to stay focused on both academics and athletics,” said Dawson, who also plays on the college basketball team. “It’s helping me take advantage of opportunities like internships and campus involvement that will strengthen my future. I’m incredibly grateful for the support and inspired to make the most of it, not just for myself, but so I can one day give back to others.”
Another scholar, Karla King, is a psychology student at the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee. She said the scholarship helps her balance education and family life.
“As a single mother and full-time student, receiving this scholarship has given me both stability and encouragement,” King said. “It’s incredibly meaningful to know that others believe in my future. After graduating, I hope to open a nonprofit teen center that empowers adolescent girls through creative and therapeutic outlets like music, art, and mentorship.”
The majority of scholarships support students in high-demand fields such as health care (46.9%), business management (31.8%), and STEM (21.2%). More than a third of recipients are also supported by Florida Bright Futures, and many are balancing their academic paths with family and work responsibilities.
“The most important thing I’ve learned from serving on the scholarship committee is how bright our future looks because of these amazing students who are pursuing their education,” said Debra Estes, chair of the scholarship committee. “Whether they are high school seniors or adults returning to school to learn a trade or attend college, they are driven, hardworking, and have already contributed so much to our community through service. They’re not only committed to improving their own lives, but also the lives of those around them. It’s truly an honor to learn from them, and I look forward to watching them succeed.”
The scholars’ journeys are possible not only because of their determination, but also the generosity that fuels their progress. Each donor who contributes to MCF’s scholarship funds helps to unlock opportunity, relieve financial pressure, and make higher education more accessible to promising students in our community.
To learn more about how to support MCF’s scholarship program or to start a scholarship fund, visit ManateeCF.org/scholarships.
Submitted by Simone Peterson
